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Haus der Geschichte - Tränenpalast

Image: Stiftung Haus der Geschichte / Axel Thünker

The Friedrichstrasse S-Bahn station was the last station before
the West Berlin border for trains running from east to west and
was located in the middle of the city on the north-south line.
When the border was sealed off in August 1961, this through
station became a terminal and a border crossing point for
travelers from both parts of Berlin. The pavilion used for
border clearance, dubbed the “Tränenpalast” (Palace of
Tears) because of the countless farewells it witnessed until
1989, is still standing today.

The foundation Haus der Geschichte der Bundesrepublik
Deutschland shows the permanent exhibition
“BorderExperiences. Everyday Life in Divided Germany” in
the “Tränenpalast,” an authentic site that is now a
protected landmark. Using real-life stories, original objects,
and interviews with contemporary witnesses, the exhibition
takes an in-depth look at life in the shadow of division and
the border. It also outlines key stages of the reunification
process.